How to Fasten a Beam to a Concrete Foundation Wall

Use angle or pocket brackets specifically designed for hanging beams when fastening a beam to concrete foundation wall. Some brackets are designed to cradle the beam on three sides, leaving the top open. Angle brackets can be placed at the bottom of the beam, allowing it to sit on top of the lip. Angle brackets can also be placed on opposite sides of the beam and bolted directly through to hold the beam in place. The amount of weight set on the beam will determine the type of bracket to be used. The brackets are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate most needs.

Things You'll Need

Local building codes

Tape measure

Beam

Marker

Hanging bracket

Hammer drill

Masonry bit

Bristle pipe brush

Concrete anchors

Wrench or ratchet set

Measure the end of the beam to determine its width and height. Transfer this outline to the concrete wall at the point where the beam will be placed.

Lay the hanging bracket against the wall and align it with the beam outline. Double check to make sure the bracket dimensions work with the beam.

Mark where the holes will be drilled into the concrete wall using the brackets' predrilled slots as references. Remove the hanging bracket to expose the wall and drill marks.

Refer to the wedge anchor packaging to determine which size masonry bit should be attached to the hammer drill. Adjust the drill's depth gauge.

Drill holes into the concrete wall where the reference marks are. Clean the holes out with a bristle pipe brush to remove any debris and dust.

Align the bracket holes with the drilled holes and slide the wedge anchors in. Tap the anchors in with a hammer if there is resistance.

Tighten the wedge anchors' nuts with a wrench or ratchet until they are secure.